How To Prep Tomatoes Like A Pro

Gardens, grocery stores, and farmers' markets overflow during the all-too-short peak (August and September). Enjoy the juicy tomato goodness, with a bonus of powerful antioxidants that may help fight cancer and cardiovascular disease. Vine-ripened have the best flavor and the most nutrients.

8 SASSY IDEAS FOR SAUCECOMBINE with sliced and sauteed sausages, onions, and peppers. Serve over polenta or stuffed into a hero roll.SIMMER fresh blanched green beans in the sauce until tender.ADD a pinch of redpepper flakes to the sauce and serve over sliced grilled steak.USE a dollop on top of a cheeseburger in place of ketchup.TOP roasted or grilled salmon with the sauce.LET cool and use as a topping for bruschetta.FLAKE canned tuna into the sauce and serve over rice.SUB tarragon for the basil and serve on grilled, sauteed, or roasted chicken.

HOW TO KEEP TOMATOES TASTYCOOKING Use any type of pan except aluminum or cast iron. They react with the acidity in the tomatoes, affecting the flavor and damaging the surface.STORING Keep tomatoes at room temperature for the best taste and texture. Refrigerating can dull their flavor and make them mealy. They'll continue to ripen, so just buy the number you can use in a week or so. Many heirloom tomatoes have thin skins. Don't pile them on top of each other.